Many would agree the true worth of a community is how it rallies around its most vulnerable in their greatest time of need.
From the feelings of hopelessness by a small group of businesspeople who wanted to do more to help friends facing a tragic outcome for one of their children, to a community that has donated more than $3.5 million to 300 families in need, the Fraser Coast is a more compassionate community thanks to Rally For a Cause.
The charity, which raises funds for families and individuals affected by life-limiting medical conditions or whose lives have been impacted by detrimental circumstances beyond their control, is celebrating a decade of service.
“What started as a concerned group wanting to be a better support for one of their friends, to a decade down the track and we have become an award-winning local charity, it truly is humbling”, says Rally For A Cause board chair Kerry Spencer.
“When an unexpected illness or personal tragedy occurs, we work with the families and individuals to ease the burden and financial strain. We engage and determine what it is that would best help get that family through.”
Over the years support has included; funds to travel and be accommodated in Brisbane for specialist treatment, putting food on the table or contributing to overdue school fees, pharmacy bills, servicing the family car, helping secure access to medical procedures and even rehabilitation equipment.
“We have been able to come to the aid of families who have suddenly lost a parent, the main provider. We have helped modify a bathroom and create a sensory garden for children with special needs and we have provided funds to assist with the costs of funerals.”
The largest annual fundraiser for the charity is the Dunga Derby – this year marking its 10th anniversary.
More than 50 “dungas” headed off from Hervey Bay on July 31 for their annual “mystery tour” from the beach to the bush celebrating their fundraising activities and spreading the Rally For A Cause ethos.
“The Dunga is a time for locals to unite and celebrate. We have had one local that has completed every Dunga Derby since 2015 and that’s Bryan Semler. Bryan epitomizes what the spirit of Dunga is all about and it is a great achievement to know he has done 10 years in a row.”
Rally For A Cause also assists Angel Families – a community of mothers and fathers, brothers and sisters who have been brought together by tragic loss and lived experience.
It is a peer group of people who have experienced the death of children under the age of 21.
Angel Families is an informal community where people can support each other through the difficult times ahead; place to chat, a place to cry, laugh, remember, be angry or sad and every emotion in between.